False Autism

Parents whose children have received a disappointing diagnosis of ASD or autism may not always immediately accept it and prepare mentally for further actions. The situation is further aggravated by the fact that this disease is not always identified correctly.

1. Why is autism so often misdiagnosed?

This happens because ASD begins to manifest itself in early childhood. While it may be suspected for children at about the age of 3 years, an accurate diagnosis can be made only for 5-7-year-olds, after comparing the level of a preschooler’s development to normally developing children. Previously, this was impossible due to the ongoing development of the brain, speech functions, coordination of movements and the formation of vital skills. Another good reason is the similarity of the disease’s symptoms to those of other diseases.

Some of these symptoms may accompany other diseases, such as:

• Stereotypical behaviour
• Unformed cognitive functions
• Unacceptability of tactile contact
• Anxiety
• Disruption of emotional connection
• Inability to express emotions
• Excessive selectivity
• Limited interests
• Absence of speech

Despite the presence of reliable diagnostic methods, situations of misdiagnosis are still quite common.

1. What diseases may be confused with autism? There are several, including:

• Sensory alalia
• Delayed mental development
• Delayed psycho-speech development
• Attention deficit disorder
• Mental retardation
• Epileptimorphic syndrome
• Schizophrenic disorder
• True epilepsy
• Hyperactivity.

1. What are the proper tests needed to make the correct diagnosis?

ASD is a multifaceted disease with many manifestations that vary from patient to patient. It is very important to have targeted observations of a child over a long period of time, which then need to be presented to one or more doctor. The diagnosis of autism is made on the basis of parental observations, prolonged special clinical tests to determine autism, and comprehensive examination of health and brain activity. It is common for families to clarify the diagnosis using a second medical opinion at a private or foreign clinic.

1. What to do if the diagnosis is confirmed?

It is necessary to start treatment immediately. Doctors are convinced that starting therapeutic course earlier yields better results. Thus, a variety of techniques are used to treat childhood autism spectrum disorder, from classical psychotherapy and developmental education to pet therapy and acupuncture. The manifestations of the disease are distinct for each patient, so the choice of methods depends on different criteria.

Stem cell transplant is one of the few techniques that is suitable and recommended for everyone. Most importantly, it is more effective in treating childhood autism compared to other methods. The most interesting thing abou it is that one course of cell therapy can radically change the course of the disease by improving the brain’s cellular structure. Patients can then successfully maintain and improve its therapeutic effects by undergoing standard developmental treatment in their community. You can register for this unique and effective treatment at the Mardaleishvili Medical Centre.

Start modern correction of childhood autism now — do not allow the disease to progress!